Whitecourt adopts new utility bylaw

New rules are now in place for Whitecourt utility services and systems, which include water, wastewater and stormwater. Utility Bylaw 1511, which came into effect on January 1, 2020, will address evolving needs of our community, and will help to protect not only the environment but also municipal infrastructure and interests.

With the January utility bill, all utility customers will be receiving an information sheet that highlights changes in the new bylaw. Further information is available on Whitecourt’s website at www.whitecourt.ca/Services/Water-Sewer.

“Our focus this year will be educating residents and the business community on the new regulations included in Bylaw 1511,” stated Kamruz Zaman, Director of Infrastructure.

The most significant change is the transitioning of utility accounts from the renter’s name into the property owner’s name; this includes residential, business and industrial rental properties. Property owners must transfer the account by December 31, 2020. There is no cost to transfer and forms are available on the Town’s website.

“Making this change will significantly enhance operational efficiencies, provide substantial cost savings to the municipality, and improve account collection,” added Mr. Zaman. “Once the account is transitioned to the property owner’s name, the property owner can determine how best to transfer that cost to their tenant through a rental agreement.”

New sampling and monitoring practices will also be implemented to reduce the discharge of prohibited substances into the wastewater collection system, and to help protect waterways and municipal infrastructure. Whitecourt will be conducting an onsite educational campaign later this year to familiarize commercial and industrial property owners with how to properly care for and maintain sumps, grease traps, and other components of the wastewater collection system within their property. Official inspections on premises will begin in 2021 to ensure acceptable wastewater is discharged to the Town’s wastewater collection system.

To learn more about new utility regulations, and to view a copy of Utility Bylaw 1511, visit www.whitecourt.ca.